I read the recent article in the Straits Times "Findings of MAS financial advice survey 'disturbing'" and this came right after several articles by top executives in financial institutions giving their opinions about fee based models failing.
The key findings were:
- Fact find on customer was inadequate
- Product disclosures were insufficient
- Products recommended were unsuitable
I do not wish to take sides and would like to give my objective views of the situation based on first hand experience as an agent and as a consumer. Issues why this is happening.
Firstly, the criteria to be a financial planner is 4 'O' levels, followed by passing of CMFAS exams about regulatory rules and product features, then "Bam" instant financial planner. May I simply query, where was proper financial planning taught in this formula. How was customers financial needs information supposed to be analyzed to develop a comprehensive financial ......